Reynaldo C. Deleon Guerrero, OSHA onsite consultation project manager, discussed the long-term effects of work-based illnesses and injuries related to chemical handling and storage, equipment for ground cleaning, electrical carpentry and other hazardous materials.
“They put their lives in danger to ensure the children get back to their homes safely — they should be commended,” he said, referring to the schools’ support and maintenance personnel.
He advised them to obtain the material data sheets for the chemicals they use.
He said they also need to know precautionary measures and proper procedures to take and to know when to apply chemicals especially if the children are around.
Most of them are not aware of the hazards they are exposed to in the workplace, he added.
According to Deleon Guerrero, they need to know how to identify hazards because these also put children at risk.
The training was part of the Public School System’s Statewide Professional Development Day for elementary school personnel.
Around 40 support and maintenance staff attended the training.
